Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company

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Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company teamed up with Make-A-Wish Mississippi to grant the one true wish of Mississippi teenager, MarKalya.

In July 2015, Markayla, 17, was diagnosed with cancer. Prior to this diagnosis, Markayla’s mom recalled that her daughter had rarely been to the doctor due to illness over the years; but in December 2014, she was treated for strep throat that wasn’t cured in five months of treatment. It was then that a specialist discovered the golf ball sized growth in Markayla’s neck. The treatment routine created a type of isolation for Markayla and her family. It took a toll on some of her friendships and she even missed her High school senior trip. The opportunity to have her one true wish granted was very inspirational for Markayla. “I spent a lot of time during treatments researching all the possible places I could travel. My wish is to have a girls’ trip to Costa Rica with my best friends, my mom and sister. This experience has been the hardest time in our lives so we could use a little joy in our lives.”

During their annual company barbecue on Friday, June 10th, Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance revealed to Markayla that her wish was being granted. Earlier this year, SFBLI employees determined that they wanted to sponsor a wish. They were able to raise the $6500 to sponsor Markayla’s wish by hosting several fun employee opportunities during the month of May. “This was truly a company effort” stated Kayla Jones “we are all ecstatic to know that we played a part in Markayla being able to spend this time with her best friends, her mom and sister.” SFBLI also presented a beach bag filled with gifts for their trip to Markayla and her family.

Make-A-Wish Mississippi strives to give each and every eligible child a dose of hope, strength, and joy through the power of a wish. Without sponsors, volunteers, donors, and medical professionals, this opportunity to wish kids and families would not be possible.

For more information on how you can donate or volunteer please visit our website at ms.wish.org or contact Painsworth@ms.wish.org